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FDA Warns of Suicidality Link to Antiepileptic Meds

By FindLaw Staff

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has issued a warning about an increased risk of suicidal thoughts and behaviors (suicidality) in patients who take drugs called antiepileptics to treat epilepsy, bipolar disorder, migraine headaches, and other conditions. The drugs that are subject to the warning include Depakote, Topamax, and Neurontin. FDA analysis of recent studies showed patients taking antiepileptics had about twice the risk of suicidal thoughts and behaviors, compared with patients receiving placebo. FDA advises patients who are currently taking antiepileptic medicines to make no changes without first talking to their health care provider.

• FDA Press Release on Antiepileptic Medications
• Suicidality and Antiepileptic Drugs - Information for Health Care Professionals (FDA)
• Reuters: U.S. Warns of Suicidal Actions with Epilepsy Drugs
• Neurontin Health and Legal Information (FindLaw)

Full post as published by FindLaw's Common Law on February 01, 2008 (boomark / email).